The inaugural week-long event will run March 8-15 in New York, to coincide with International Women’s Day. The Public joins other artistic partners including theatres, galleries, museums, operas and ballets that will spotlight the work of UN Women and the HeForShe initiative. More details on programming will be announced soon.

HeForShe supports the UN Women's mission for 50-50 gender equality by 2030 by providing a platform through which men and boys can engage and become agents of change. The arts week, presented in partnership with the City of New York, will be an opportunity for cultural institutions to support this goal.

"The theatre is a force for democracy, and the core idea of democracy is equality," said artistic director Oskar Eustis in a press statement. "The theatre is a collaborative form, and the core of collaboration is solidarity. The Public is proud to stand in solidarity with HeForShe and the United Nations as we fight together for a better world."

"Art makes people think and question, and people change the world. Indeed, for women from Jane Austen to Maya Angelou, art has been one of the most effective ways to make our voices heard," said First Lady of New York City Chirlane McCray. "Our world works best when everyone has the opportunity to succeed, but we are not there yet—not even close. Too many women don't feel safe in their own homes and public spaces. Too many women are unheard in our political system, and under-appreciated in the workplace. We must continue using our art as a megaphone. That's why I am honored to partner with HeForShe and The Public Theater for New York Arts Week."

For more information on the Public Theater's mission and season, visit PublicTheater.org.